Monday, February 25, 2008

Kenya Safari- Lake Nakuru Safari Park of Kenya Rift Valley Lake Vacation

The wonders of Lake Nakuru safari park

Lake Nakuru National Park is most famous for its stunning flocks of lesser flamingo, which led to its protection as a park. The flamingos populations are so massive they turn the edges of the lake pink. The park, thanks to the lake also has a very rich birdlife and is a stating point for upcoming ornithologists, scientists and wildlife-film makers.

The Nakuru lake vacation park includes a range of wooded and bush grassland surrounding the lake and offering a wide ecological variety, from lake water, woodland to rocky escarpments and ridges.

Facts on Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is located at an altitude of 4,000-5,767 ft and covers an area of 188sqkm. Lake Nakuru is a distance of 157 km from Nairobi Kenya. It has a Naishi airstrip. The Kenyan Lake Park opened its doors in June 1968 to protect the lake and its beneficiary bird and animal life. The Saline lake Nakuru national park hosts over 400 bird species including both aquatic and terrestrial birds.

The lake with a pink Ribbon

Flamingos alone number over 1 million birds in any given time of the year. Game viewing in Nakuru lake Vacation Park is plentiful and easy. Animals to be found in the park include ;leopard, White Rhino, Black Rhino, African savannah lion, Buffaloes, gazelles, hyenas, antelopes, giraffes among other Kenya plains game.

Lake Nakuru National Park has a very picturesque landscape consisting of Yellow fever trees (Acacia) and the endemic Euphorbia Candelabrum.

Wildlife of Lake Nakuru National Park

Other notable game in the lake park includes the hippo and clawless otters. There are plentiful of waterbucks and Bohor?s reedbuck and zebra roaming on the shores of Lake Nakuru. The woodlands have been restocked and successfully bred both white and black rhino populations. The black rhino populations had been decimated by poaching and only 2 animals remained in 1987.

A rhino sanctuary was introduced in the park and a breeding herd introduced from Laikipia. This has led to the lake Nakuru national park to be among the top breeding Kenya animal park for the black and white rhinos.

Wildlife viewing in Nakuru national park is relatively easy and one is able to see buffalo, leopard, lion, Rothschild?s giraffe, white and black colobus monkey. The woodlands offer eland, steinbok, impala, Chandler's Reedbuck and dik dik, whilst rock hyrax and klipspringer occupy the cliffs and escarpment.

Lake Nakuru Accommodation, lodges, campsites, guest houses and bandas

Accommodation in Nakuru national park include two lodges namely the Lake Nakuru lodge and the Sarova Lion Hill lodge with a total bed capacity of 244. There is a KWS guest house, five campsites, self?help bandas and two picnic sites; the Makalia Falls and Njoro River Mouth (Near the main gate).

Getting there There is an airstrip at the Lake Nakuru Park which gets scheduled and chartered flights from Wilson airport in Nairobi.

The park is however well served with a good Nairobi-Nakuru highway and is only 2 hours by road. In addition, one is able to make stops at the various view points with awesome panoramic views into the floor of the Great Rift Valley. By all means using the road is more rewarding when visiting Nakuru National Park.

Robert is an Kenya East Africa travel expert and director of Landmarksafaris.com. For more information on other most sought after Kenyan parks, see here: http://www.landmarksafaris.com/tours/wildlife.php/?refferer=ezinearticles

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Monday, February 11, 2008

Your African Safari By Design

When you ask anyone you know about their last or most favorite vacation they will probably go into great detail about how wonderful it was. Most people will paint you a mental picture of the scenery and all the things to do. Of course, if it rained at all while they were there you will hear about that too. That kind of information may very well make you want to go there, but it doesn?t help you to plan and design a perfect vacation, like an African Safari.

You might think an African Safari is a vacation for a Teddy Roosevelt type person, but not necessarily. You have choices, lots of them.

The planning process for your trip to Africa is like other vacations only more intense. It is intense, unless you have a plan for how to make your plans. You just have to add a lot of special considerations when planning. For starters, why do you want to go? Is it something you have always wanted to do and are passionate about it? Is it a simple case of seeking adventure? Do you want to experience the animals and other products of nature? Maybe you never saw yourself on a safari until your research told you it is much more than hunting very large animals.

You know about the animals. What else do you expect to get out of your vacation? Probably most people think of lions and tigers when they paint their mental picture of Africa. You do have other options. Would you like your African Safari to focus on tracking? Maybe you would prefer a hiking theme. How about an astrological or a photography theme safari? Still not decided? How about a cycling or marine theme?

How much it will cost you varies. Although ?off-the-shelf? African Safaris are available, most safaris are customized for each person or group. The safaris are designed based on what season you are interested in and how long you will be staying. Of course, it also depends on the number of people in your group and what accommodations you want. Your lodging may range from military style tents and cots to pure luxury. What area of Africa are you interested in? Do you want to go to more than one country while you are there? It is your option.

You will have some decisions to make about what you want after you initially arrive in Africa. You may choose to fly into the actual area of the safari, or pick the more traditional over land and canoe route. If you wish the use of a motorized vehicle, you will have to include that in your planning. They are optional.

What about the time of year? You will want to consider the season and climate when planning your life-changing trip to Africa. Most likely, the climate during any given time of the year is not the same as your hometown.

So surf the Internet. Get some kind of a feel for all of things there are to do on an African Safari. Make a list of what is most interesting to you. Find out what time of year you will be going. What is the weather usually like there at that time? Of course, what do you take for clothing? How many people are going? What is the theme of your safari? Make a budget. Decide what kind of accommodations you want or need. What means of transportation will work for you when you arrive in Africa? What or how many countries do you want to visit as a part of your vacation? If you build your African Safari using a design based on good planning, it may very well change your life.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to African Safaris

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Sunday, February 3, 2008

Hotel Nairobi Kenya - Safari Park Hotel Nairobi Finest Kenya Hotel

Safari Park Hotel - Nairobi

Developed in the 50s as a British Army officer?s retreat, the Safari Park Hotel has grown since the colonial period to a bastion of excellence as a world acclaimed inland lodge resort. The current complex is a complete redefinition of the humble officer?s retreat of the years gone by. Located in the northern suburbs of Nairobi, the safari park hotel is ideal as a getaway within 15 minutes of the town centre. Located only 15 minutes from downtown Nairobi, you will experience the fast pace of the city while escaping back to the expansive serenity of the hotel.

African ambience at the safari park Hotel

Built in a staggering 64 acres of land, the safari park hotel combines the intrigues of African hospitality and unrivalled modernity sprawled in excruciatingly well manicured gardens full of thorn trees and green lawns. This external ambience is amplified by the exquisite African architecture of the interior and art. The hotel combines cutting edge technology in its architecture and infrastructure creating a monolith yet beautiful and appealing touch.

Friendly and helpful staff

At safari park hotel, not only the wild flowers and imposing trees shine but you are greeted by the ever smiling faces at the reception. On arrival, the doorman will treat you like a long gone friend coming back home and the receptionist will welcome you with expected but always welcome and comforting smiles, if only to forget the rigors of the day that was. Attention to your needs is very high here and you almost feel like you are being treated like king if not taking too much of their time.

Rooms at the Safari park hotel Nairobi

The safari park hotel has 30 deluxe rooms where you wind down with the fresh air from the balcony of your room or in any of the 174 luxury rooms. Rooms here are way larger than the world standards and you almost feel like you are back home without the usual feeling of enclosure in many hotels

Rooms Facilities of this Nairobi Kenya hotel

The rooms are fitted with large four poster beds, color televisions with CNN and in-house movies. There are lavish marble and gold bathrooms set in a uniquely African style with a standard of comfort straight from Europe. The rooms also have fully stocked minibar and 24 hour room service of the sumptuous cuisines the hotel has to offer.

Restaurants in safari park Nairobi

The safari parks seven international restaurants include the African, Chinese, French, Italian, Japanese, Indian and Continental. The hotel guarantees that you will be spoilt for choice in each of these international culinary oriented standards of its restaurants. Each themed restaurant has a speciality chef from these countries who makes sure food is as good as it takes in its source region.

The innovation in presentation of the food is enough to make your taste buds ache for that ultimate bite of the dishes on offer. Accompaniment to the dinning experience is in the form of a solo piano player or a 7-piece band providing that extra touch toward your total enjoyment.

The Japanese restaurant with its Tepanyaki style Chiyo defines style. Never has dining taken on more creativity and color than in the Tepanyaki style Chiyo, Japanese restaurant. You will delve at the sights, sounds and smells of fresh delicacies being expertly prepared on your steel table by Chef Song and his staff.

For those that like to dine outside with the breeze, you can relax under the giant trees at the Kivuli (shade) terrace or enjoy a bite or drink after a swim by the refreshing pool-side menu. The green landscape and waterfalls will dazzle your senses and give you that feeling of never wanting to leave the safari park.

Entertainment and night in the Nairobi Hotel

As the sun goes down up comes the vibrant night life at the safari park. You are again spoilt for choice of night entertainment. The Cats Club, nightclub will invigorate you with the regions hottest discoth?que or soothes you with the soulful sounds of its contemporary piano bar. The Kivuli, Kigwa or Casino bars offer you a variety in ambiance and quenching specialties of the house.

Nairobi Safari Park Extra Sport Facilities

Other activity facilities at the safari park include the largest swimming pool in Africa, over 2000 square meters in size. The hotel has two tennis courts that are flood lit by night. There are also 2 squash courts in the hotel premises. If yours is a more outdoor approach, horse riding lessons and programs can be arranged during your stay at the safari park hotel.

In addition the safari Fitness Health club has Jacuzzis, sauna, steam room, professional gymnasium and aerobic studio. A professional instructor is available to assist guests with their specific athletic needs. Masseuse services are also available at the Safari Park Hotel.

Robert is a travel expert in Kenya east Africa and tour consultant with Landmark Safaris. Make a free enquiry on the type of Jacuzzi hotel in Kenya you need here. http://www.landmarksafaris.com/hotel/?refferer=ezinearticles

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Friday, February 1, 2008

Baby Shower Idea - Animal Antics On African Safari Crib Bedding At Baby Shower

A baby shower idea that can lead to heart-stopping, imaginary adventures in the African Bush is a set of African Safari baby crib bedding. Imagine how much fun a mom-to-be and her precious baby is going to have exploring all the animal antics brought to life on innovative African Safari baby crib bedding fabrics. It is a worthwhile baby shower idea to team up with a few friends and give a really useful set of baby crib bedding or cot bed bedding.

Equipping a nursery with anything from Bellini baby furniture to Dutailier glider rockers, is an expensive venture. Helping out with a crib bedding set, chosen to coordinate with the baby furniture, will be a much appreciated baby shower idea. If you do a bit of homework, you should know what type of baby nursery theme the parents would enjoy, as well as the color scheme they have in mind.

Wendy Bellissimo Introduces Baby To The Wonders Of The Animal Kingdom

Wendy Bellissimo Petite Safari baby crib bedding is a popular baby shower idea, as she understands the knack of bringing the animal kingdom to life in a colorful way. This baby shower idea would be a welcome change from the over commercialized, very frilly babyish themes sometimes dominating this market.

The Glenna Jean African Safari baby crib bedding set can also be used when planning your baby shower idea, although the colors are more muted and perhaps not the best choice for stimulating a baby. Glenna Jean African Safari crib bedding includes a printed quilt with a sage green border, and is finished in red gingham piping. A cream chenille crib bumper, fitted sheet and dust ruffle completes the set.

If you combine your resources with friends in planning your baby shower idea, you may be able to add accessories such as the window shade, a valance with a palm tree and leopard print, the diaper stacker and the adorable musical mobile with soft elephants and other animal characters.

Also in the running for featuring in an African Safari bedding baby shower idea, is the Kidsline Zanzibar crib bedding set. This 6-piece cot bedding set is enchanting for either a little boy or a little girl. It steers clear of the more common pink or blue baby stuff. The animal antics of this baby shower idea takes place against a backdrop of beige and green. The set has a tranquil, yet warm feel.

The set includes the usual crib bumper, a luxurious quilt, the fitted sheet, a crib skirt, the valance and the diaper stacker. Sensory stimulation has been kept in mind during manufacturing, and a variety of fabric textures have been incorporated in the design. The Kidsline Zanzibar nightlight will become a much used accessory when scary night-time monsters start to make their appearance...

Another African Safari bedding baby shower idea comes from Brandee Danielle. Her On Safari bedding set features a cozy quilt, a soft crib bumper, fitted sheet and crib skirt. Your friends can opt for the hamper, extra fluffy pillows, a lamp shade, a cute mobile, the window valance, or a colorful On Safari wall hanging.

Baby Shower Idea Leads To Monkey Business

Who knew monkeys could be purple and yellow? The Monkey See, Monkey Do baby crib bedding set is another African Safari baby shower idea. This set by Anna Claire Crib Bedding includes a baby quilt, bumper, dust ruffle, and sheet. The bedding set is machine washable. The characters are lovable, vibrant, and lively. Any infant will fall in love these adorable animal friends.

Also take a look at the Kidsline Swazi African Safari baby crib bedding set while weighing your baby shower idea options. This line features colorful, charming characters.

Why not make it an authentic African Safari baby shower theme, with cuddly animal toys as extra baby shower gifts? Use lively African Safari images on the free baby shower invitations. Scour the internet for baby shower games and favors with an African theme.

Just remember: with all these animals let loose in the baby nursery, your African Safari baby shower idea will probably sentence your friend to raising a spirited young adventurer...

Cribs-for-Babies.com - For more information read Wendy Bellissimo Petite Safari 4-Piece Crib Set - So Petite Baby Bedding Safari at Cribs-For-Babies.com - by Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com, where you will discover the number one online legitimate home based business opportunity.

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Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Let Safari Decorating Give Your Home An Exotic Ambiance

Safari decorating is an exotic and fun decorating theme which will add an interesting dimension to your home. This style uses earthtones, lush jungle decor, animal prints and natural items to add a unique look that is fun to live with. By having safari theme decorating in your home, you can create an exotic jungle ambiance no matter where your house is.

One thing that can really add to your safari decor is jungle and safari themed accessories and luckily there are many to be found on the market today. Include paintings and knick knacks in your home that reflect an African safari. Zebra print lamps, wall art that reflects lush jungle scenes, potted plants and animal knick knacks will all add to the aura of your safari home.

Getting the right window treatments for your home is a fundamental undertaking since the wrong type can undermine your design style. You should try to purchase curtains, drapes or shutters that are natural. For this style, it could work great to use some jungle print curtains or blinds.

Balance your design with furniture which compliment the general decorating approach. You want to look at acquiring items that are wood and upholstery to enhance Safari decorating. Think about using overstuffed furniture that uses a floral, fern like or animal print fabric. For non upholstered items, try using bamboo or rattan items.

Terrific lights can truly complete the safari decorating so you will need to give some thought to this area. With this kind of decor, you?ll need your lighting to be animal or natural themed. There are many lamps out there that are animal themed as well as plant themed.

There are many great rugs that match well with the safari decorating theme. When picking out colors, stick to animal prints or solids and for type contemplate purchasing shag rugs or even rugs that are shaped and colored like an animal skin. If you want a less busy look on the floor, natural sisal mats could look great.

Updating your home with a safari decorating theme doesn't need to be hard if you pay attention to detail. Simply buy your pieces with care and you are sure to get a designer look without having to hire a designer

Lee Dobbins write for http://100decoratingstyles.com/ where you can learn more about decorating and get tips on other great decorating styles.

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Sunday, January 20, 2008

Behind Safari Vests And Pockets

We recommend you to bring one safari vest during your trip. And that's it.

Leave all your dressy clothes at home unless you are to attend a special function in Africa while on a trip.

The trick in safariing is to be as lightweight and functional as possible. Lightweight, due to the fact that you cannot (and must not) carry as much gears as you prefer while on the field. Despite from being too impractical, too many luggages would only cause you terrible mess and less ease of travel.

In the early years of African safaris, people are fond of taking with them unnecessary materials (a huge wooden chair for example) that are obviously unneeded. Well, travelers are far more comfortable with such form of practice since they have carriers to do the works for them. after all, most early safari guests came from the up society.

Yet, for the present, no one is truly certain that she can walk as comfortable while goofing around with extra (and unnecessary gears) while transferring from one vehicle to another or while crossing a remote trek.

Wearing safari vests, while treated more as a traditional part of all safari trips should be viewed as something practically important.

The rule of thumb is to apply casual comfort. Carry an average of 3 to 4 shirts for your entire trip and those must be pure cotton. On top of these, you need to have a safari jacket or safari vest.

A safari vest is vital for carrying with you small but essential gadgets such as a Swiss knife, extra films or a pocket size camera. In fact, anything will do so long as they fit in the pockets of your vest.

From 8 to 10 pockets, it would be impossible that a safari vest would not hold enough of your stuffs.

You may place them in your backpack off course but accessibility makes everything less complicated.

Actually, because of this specific property of safari vests, they are also popular among photographers and other professions that require the use of extra pouches.

Safari vests typically appear in neutral shades, following the idea of not being too loud when on the trek.

This practice can also be observed for your long sleeves, shirts and other safari clothing. Not only do neutral shades lessen the possibility of attracting animals, these may also allow proper ventilation. They are not as heat absorbent as other darker colors and they somehow help heat bounce back away from your body.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com

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Friday, November 2, 2007

Botswana Safari- The Haven Of Wildlife Sanctuaries


Vast lands?wildlife?well, anyone may have those two in Africa but not definitely like the experience that may be had from Botswana Safaris.

This vast piece of land is only one of the few where wildlife need not compete for land and resources with man. The land area is as large as France yet the population counts only to mere 1.6 million people. As an outcome, wildlife has increased in great number that the place becomes a sanctuary for the finest games in all Africa.

Being the world's largest exporter of diamonds, Botswana no longer has to compete with the tourist market. Yet as grand as its land offers for safari fanatics, it can't help but attract as many tourists as its resources may allow. However, the government decrees the limited number of people allowed to penetrate Botswana safaris, thus the significant increase in prices, which ultimately made it as an exclusive safari destination.

Kalahari dessert dominates 84% of all Botswana. Though it is a dessert by name, Kalahari is not much like a dessert, as we may perceive Sahara. Except for occasional sand dunes, Kalahari is mostly covered with vegetation characterized by bushes, grasslands, trees and scrubs. However, water is meager thus the dessert label.

Visitors of Botswana safaris are almost always amazed at how creative and genius the creation and maintenance of its wildlife sanctuaries.

The finest games in the whole region are found in the Chobe National Park which is located somewhere in the north east side of the country. It harbors the most varied games in the country and is refuted to nurse the largest group of elephants in a single place. Elephants here are estimated to have reached up to 80,000 individuals.

Savuti Marshes, on the other hand (which is located in the Chobe National Park) is refuted to have the largest density of predators found in all Africa. Hundreds of wildlife species are found here, both preys and predators.

Its resources for water encourages buffalo, antelopes, zebras and the likes that are followed by predators such as the leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, lions, and jackals. Some predators here have the tendency to become lazy and living in Savuti Marshes sounds more like a gift than anything else.

Botswana safari is simply a unique place for wildlife conservation. But this act is took time to accomplish. Botswana is a country that is bordered by neighboring countries. While great efforts and done to protect all its wildlife, it still needs other countries' collaboration to make everything working. After all, animals do not comprehend international borders.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy. It may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more information on safari & other useful information, please visit http://safari.articlekeep.com.


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Friday, October 26, 2007

Africa Has A Wealth Of Safari Vacation Choices

Taking a safari vacation is one of the most exotic options available. Deep in the heart of Africa is Tanzania, with the great Serengeti plains extending into the distance as far as you can see. Herds of animals run free here in an untamed wilderness. Predators still hunt for prey here. The Serengeti name comes from the Maasai word meaning 'the place where the land runs on forever'. This flat and grassy plan that makes up about one-third of the park, together with the savannahs, is packed with game.

One of the most famous events that occur on the Serengeti is the wildebeest migration. Every year, about two million animals move around the 14,764-square kilometer ecosystem in a clockwise direction, looking for good grazing land and water. These animals are closely followed by predators.

You can spend your time among lions, elephants, cheetahs, impala, hyena, and warthogs. You can sit at a campfire under the African sky, which is home to millions of stars. You can experience the unchanged Africa, exploring historic and exotic places. You will see amazing sunsets and landscape and be hosted by open-hearted people.

When you go to Kenya you can begin your own adventures by traveling as an observer or participating in the many opportunities to see exotic wildlife and natural wonders. You can explore archaeological sites and antiquities. There are also many calm waterways and architectural marvels to be seen and experienced.

Some have described Kenya as having everything that is beautiful in Africa. It has rolling savannahs, icy peaks on Mount Kenya, and the white coral beaches of the Indian Ocean. There are holidays of all types, such as camel safaris in Samburu land. You can participate in walking safaris for bird-watching or go golfing and fishing. You may choose to visit Maasai Mara, where thousands of wildebeest and zebra migrate in July and August. This is an exciting sight for visitors. The coast of Kenya provides many attractions, and Lamu Island has white sand beaches with archaeological sites providing a view into pre-colonial African history. Malindi offers good fishing, surfing, and snorkeling.

Just because you are on safari doesn't mean you'll have to stay in canvas tents. There are also numerous hotels, game lodges, tree hotels, and self-catering chalets. All of these venues offer rest rooms, clean beds, and fine dining. There are good modern roads that connect one exciting location to another and most parks and reserves are easily accessed, so you can see big game.

You can hire cars, motor coaches, and luxury minibuses for transportation, as well as air services with sophisticated charter networks. One of the best journeys runs from Nairobi to Mombasa.

East Africa is a great place to visit all year long. Each season has its own charm, and each area offers wonderful moments. Visit your travel agent to design a trip suitable for you and to get the best deals on airfare, accommodations, tour guides, transportation, and more.



Discover more articles about vacation and travel ideas by visiting http://vacation-secrets.com


 

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Thursday, September 6, 2007

Tanzanian Safari: A Place Of Wonder And Discovery

Tanzania is a place of wonder and discovery, it was the entry point for many early explorers and the same is true today; there is much on offer and there are many places to discover. Not many visitors to Tanzania discover the wonder of this friendly African paradise. They rush by from one high point to the next; like sheep who never lift their head out of the grass and thereby miss the splendor around them; every day the same as the last. This saddens me as Tanzania can be a place in which to fall in love with Africa. Tanzania is a place that lives inside you; and calls you back again and again. Although, unfortunately, for many it is another destination to merely claim and photograph.

The Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a national park with no roads. This park has wildlife but was created primarily for the protection of flora rather than fauna; this park is unique in Tanzania. It is a must to get out your vehicle and walk in the mountain rain forests. Like all places it takes time to discover and an afternoon stroll on the peripheries of adventure is simply not enough.

It is possible to find many places to walk and discover the delights of this East African country without ever stepping inside a National Park. There are the East and West Usamabara Mountains or the Pare Mountains with a prolific birdlife, these very African mountains are a delight to discover and explore.

There are villages around Kilimanjaro, high above Moshi Town where the local people growing coffee and bananas. Some villages such as my favorite, Uru, are close to the tourist circuit, so it is easily accessible in the north without having to taking a special journey and you can spend days here and never see a safari vehicle or another tourist.

Cultural visits can expand your whole experience; add time and experience to your itinerary in Tanzania without costing a fortune. It is important to do this with gentleness and respect; remembering that you are the visitor here. All too often this simple truth is forgotten; remember to respect local customs and dress codes.

When we talk about cultural tour I am not talking of the organized cultural tours but a genuine encounter with Tanzanian people. This is best done though a charity that is willing and eager to organize cultural visits. By spending only a day or two working voluntary will enable you to experience Africa in way most people will never know. To volunteer even for a short time will be the experience you will share with friends for the rest of your life.

To move around Tanzania on local transport is something you should do with care. If traveling by road choose your bus company with caution and the cheaper the ticket the less safe the bus. There are good bus companies that travel around Tanzania and I would advise you pay the extra money for both comfort and safety. Trains are not usually an option for tourists, with a few exceptions they are normally unreliable and slow. The few destinations that are usable have first class tickets sold out well in advance; especially at holiday time; to book in advance is essential.

You may get hassled as you walk around the cities by taxi drivers or young men selling curios. Remember, Tanzania is a poor country and these young people are attempting to earn a living to feed a family; and competition is fierce. To know a few words in Swahili, such as si-ombi [I don?t need] will come in handy. Remember not to be rude, be firm but friendly. This is all part of the joy of traveling. To barter, or to try to get rid of a persistent young man selling curios should be done with respect and without anger.

The towns and villages are a cultural dream with the warm friendly people welcoming visitors. Tanzania is a country where hospitality is a tradition; the traveler is welcomed and honored. Is it safe to travel alone; in the big towns such as Dar es Salaam it would be advisable to take the normal precautions any tourist must take. Tanzania is a safe country and its people are peace loving.

So, welcome and discover a place unspoiled for the present.


For a more comprehensive guide to discovering the true Tanzania and traveling around Tanzania contact Ian through http://www.betheladventure.co.uk Using responsible tourism to change lives.

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Saturday, September 1, 2007

Preparing An African Safari, Safety Tips And Guide.

If you feel you are ready for an African safari, think again. Even if you are travelling to a country you are familiar with, it is still very important to be aware of the physical conditions and safety. This is very important if you are considering a visit to most of the African countries. Here are tips on what to do before leaving home and while you are abroad.

Before leaving home

Make sure you have enough Information about the country you are visiting, including that on traditions and security concerns. This can be got from the travel guides and Directory. Ensure that you are updated on the current issues and changes in the politics.

Remember to make a computer scan of your passport, write your passport number down and potentially learn it in case you lose it. Its important that you note down the diplomatic mission offices to the country you are going to. This ensures easier processing of your documents in case you lose or misplace them.

Photocopy any official documents you might have with you, scan them and email them to your self so that you can access them wherever you are. The internet cafes are almost in every Major and small centre districts of Africa so you would have no trouble over this.

It is very important to have a medical check up to prepare for a healthy holiday. Remember you are looking forward to having the best time, so you would not like a simple illness to distort every thing you planned. if you have a chronic illness( like diabetes, high blood pressure, sinus problems or even nervous disorder), check with your doctor, who can at the same time give you a letter explaining the same problem in English and the details .

Its important to read the health tips for the traveler. Diseases like Malaria have to be avoided. Some of the things you will eat won?t go down well. Be armed!

Make sure you have seen your dentist recently. And it is also advisable to pack a medical kit with pain killers , repellants , bandages , and an antiseptic cleaners, for your self and children travelling with you If you are on regular medication , take care to pack enough to last the travel time.

Ensure that you?re insurance coverage is valid in case you become sick or injured abroad. Some insurance campanies specialize in overseas travel insurance and may allow you to buy short-term coverage.

It is recommended that you attend practical training courses to equip your self with the skills and state of mind for a safe and productive mind for a safe and productive trip.

Check out the political situation in the country you are to visit and get psychologically prepared. Official web sites on the Internet will provide you with the ideal information. Inform your self on the quality of public transport at your destination.

Set a limit on your credit card, so if it is stolen, thieves will be unable to takeout a large amount of money on it.

Clothing is very important. Please get to know the climate and weather conditions before you take on a safari. If you have hired a safari operator, contact the company for recommendation on clothing during the specified period of your travel. Remember that decency is preferred by all the African countries.

At the destination

After you get to your destination, there are more important points worth considering to avoid illness so as to enjoy your holiday .

To relive symptoms of jetlag, eat lightly, drink a lot of fluids but avoid alcohol and caffeine a few days after your trip.

Try to relax and sleep on your flight so you can be energetic nonce you reach your destination .Try to sleep when locals do in order to get used to the local time.

Watch out for road signs: the most common reasons for death abroad is car accidents. Visitors are not always aware of the driving culture at the place they visit.

Use two wallets. Hide one of them with essential belongings in your jacket pockets. Fill the other with a small amount of money. In case of an assault you can hand this one over.

Do not count your money in public, as you might become a target for thieves

Know what notes you have in your pocket and wallet. Keep larger denominations away from prying eyes.

It is better to book an earlier flight than a later one. It is easier and safer to find your hotel and the people you may need to meet during the day than the night.

Try not to stand out in the crowd and if you have an expensive laptop, cover it so it is not apparent.Do not use or take an expensive mobile phone; an older one, reliable model will do.

Learn to identify what the uniforms of the local police look like.

Do not take any taxi you find ? check to see if it belongs to an official company . Ask the hotel reception about rates you can expect to pay when you use a taxi.

Always set a price before getting in the taxi or ask for a meter to be used . Pick up the hotel?s business card. You can always present this to a taxi driver if you cannot find way back especially in the local language.

This presents a just a few tips on Travelling to Africa. If you are planning a Safari, some countries not to miss out include Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, South Africa, Botswana and Rwanda.

Richard Dickson is a free lance journalist in Africa. More of his articles can be found at the website, http://www.aboutuganda.com

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